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Mitch Albom creates his most unforgettable character—Frankie Presto, the greatest guitarist ever to walk the earth—in this magical novel about the power of talent to change our lives.
In Mitch Albom’s epic new novel, the voice of Music narrates the tale of its most beloved disciple, Frankie Presto, a Spanish war orphan raised by a blind music teacher. At nine years old, Frankie is sent to America in the bottom of a boat. His only possession is an old guitar and six magical strings.
But Frankie’s talent is touched by the gods, and it weaves him through the musical landscape of the twentieth century, from classical to jazz to rock and roll. Along the way, Frankie influences many artists: he translates for Django Reinhardt, advises Little Richard, backs up Elvis Presley, and counsels Hank Williams.
Frankie elevates to a rock star himself, yet his gift becomes his burden, as he realizes that he can actually affect people’s futures: his guitar strings turn blue whenever a life is altered. Overwhelmed by life, loss, and this power, he disappears for years, only to reemerge in a spectacular and mysterious farewell.
With its Forrest Gump–like journey through the music world, The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto is a classic in the making. A lifelong musician himself, Mitch Albom delivers an unforgettable story. “Everyone joins a band in this life,” he observes, be it through music, family, friends, or lovers. And those connections change the world.
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The Audiobook
Read by a full cast, including: Mitch Albom, Roger McGuinn, Ingrid Michaelson, John Pizzarelli, and Paul Stanley.
The Soundtrack & Official Playlist
Who is Frankie Presto?
Paul Stanley, Tony Bennett, Ingrid Michaelson, Burt Bacharach, Wynton Marsalis, Roger McGuinn, Darlene Love, Phredley Brown and film directors Jon Avnet and Mike Binder recount their “memories” of the mysterious fictional icon Frankie Presto, the greatest guitar player of all time, and the title character of Mitch Albom’s newest novel, The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto.
THE COMPANION SOUNDTRACK ALBUM
the first ever soundtrack to a book!
Bringing the music of Frankie Presto to life!
Includes original songs by Ingrid Michaelson, Mat Kearney, Sawyer Fredericks and Phredley Brown (co-written with Mitch) and timeless fan favorites that are featured prominently in the novel. Details here.
International Editions
Words & Music Charity Launch Event • Fox Theatre • Detroit
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